Hong Kong urges dog owners to control pets legally after bite incidents
Hong Kong's Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department reminds dog owners of legal responsibilities after a crackdown that has caught 10 stray dogs. Owners face fines up to HK$10,000 for uncontrolled dogs, and up to HK$25,000 and three months' jail for large dogs on leashes over two metres.
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has reminded dog owners in Hong Kong of their legal obligations to keep their animals under control in public places, following a special enforcement operation that began in August.
Under Section 23 of the Rabies Ordinance (Chapter 421), dogs in public places must be kept on a leash or otherwise effectively controlled. Offenders face a maximum fine of HK$10,000. If a dog bites someone, the owner can be fined up to another HK$10,000.
The Dangerous Dogs Regulation (Chapter 167D) further stipulates that large dogs weighing 20 kilograms or more must be securely held on a leash no longer than two metres in public places. Violators can be fined up to HK$25,000 and jailed for up to three months.
An AFCD spokesman said that in a high-density urban environment, unrestrained dogs pose a risk to public safety. The department has conducted special inspections and enforcement actions at multiple locations across Hong Kong since August. A new round of operations began on 8 October, with a four-month focus on high-risk areas where dogs have previously attacked pedestrians or where strays gather.
As of the latest announcement on 26 October, the operations have caught 10 unattended dogs. The AFCD said it will pursue legal liability and prosecution against their owners based on evidence collected.
The department urged all persons who own, possess, have custody of, or even shelter a dog, as well as occupiers of premises where the animal is kept or allowed to stay, to be clear about their legal responsibilities. Further information on responsible pet ownership is available on the AFCD website at www.pets.gov.hk.
